Smoking Cessation

Nicotine is a highly addictive substance that alters brain chemistry, releasing dopamine and creating feelings of pleasure and relaxation. Over time, your brain becomes dependent on nicotine to maintain these effects, leading to cravings when levels drop. This dependence makes quitting challenging without support or treatment.

There are several effective treatments to help people quit smoking, including nicotine replacement therapies like gum and patches, and prescription medicines such as varenicline, cytisine, or Zyban (bupropion). These work by reducing cravings, easing withdrawal, or blocking nicotine’s pleasurable effects. Combining medication with behavioural support increases your chances of success.

Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) supply a controlled dose of nicotine without the harmful chemicals found in cigarettes. This helps manage cravings and withdrawal symptoms while you gradually reduce your nicotine intake. Options include gums, patches, lozenges, and inhalers, allowing you to choose what fits your lifestyle best.

Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can include irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, and increased appetite. These effects usually peak within the first few days after quitting and improve over time. Treatments such as nicotine gum or patches can ease these symptoms while your body adjusts.

Nicotine withdrawal typically lasts around two to four weeks, though some cravings can persist longer. The first week is usually the hardest, as your body adapts to lower nicotine levels. Using stop-smoking aids like Niquitin Patches or Nicorette Gum can help manage symptoms during this period.

Cravings usually last only a few minutes but can feel intense. Distraction techniques, staying hydrated, and using nicotine replacement products can help you overcome them. Over time, as your brain adjusts, cravings become less frequent and easier to manage.

The majority of smoking cessation treatments are considered safe and well-tolerated when used as directed. Nicotine replacement therapies contain far fewer harmful substances than cigarettes, and prescription options like varenicline and bupropion are widely used under medical supervision. You should always follow guidance from your healthcare provider before starting any treatment.

By combining medical treatments with behavioural support, it can improve your chances of successfully quitting. Nicotine replacement therapies and prescription tablets reduce cravings and make withdrawal more manageable. Success rates improve with persistence and the right combination of support and medication.

Yes, the lungs can begin to heal after quitting smoking, even after decades of use. While some damage may be permanent, lung function often improves within months, and the risk of heart disease and cancer decreases over time. Quitting at any age has significant health benefits.

Some people may experience mild weight gain after quitting due to changes in metabolism and appetite. However, this is usually temporary and can be managed through balanced eating and regular exercise. The health benefits of quitting smoking far outweigh the small risk of weight gain.

Yes, some people quit smoking without medication by relying on willpower, counselling, or behavioural changes. However, most find that combining these methods with nicotine replacement or prescription treatments improves success rates. Even if you start naturally, medication support can help if cravings become difficult to manage.

Continuing to smoke increases your risk of serious health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, cancer, and chronic lung disease. Over time, the body’s ability to repair itself declines, making it harder to recover from smoking-related damage. Quitting as soon as possible offers immediate and long-term health benefits.